At Sumner Regional Medical Center, our mission is Making Communities Healthier. So, as you get settled into the new fall season this month, make flu prevention part of your routine.

Get vaccinated

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly influenza vaccination for everyone six months of age and older as the first and best form of prevention against the flu. Studies show that, not only can the flu vaccine reduce your risk of illness by about 50 to 60 percent, but it can also make your illness milder, should you contract the flu, resulting in fewer doctor visits, less time missed from your daily routines and fewer flu-related hospitalizations. And by preventing the spread of the virus, you’re helping others in your community stay healthy, like older people, pregnant women, young children and those with health conditions who are especially vulnerable to serious complications from this illness.

To get vaccinated, you can visit the Public Health Department, a walk-in clinic or pharmacy, or your primary care physician. If you don’t have a primary care physician, visit us at www.MySumnerMedical.com or call us at 1-800-424-DOCS, and we'll get you connected to the right care.

The Next Steps

There are some additional measures you can take to help prevent the flu for you and others.

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol-based.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Avoid sharing food, cups or eating utensils.

Disinfect your home and belongings, such as door knobs, light switches, children’s toys and play areas.

Stay home from school or work if you are sick to prevent the spread of germs.

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a tissue, your sleeve or elbow, and NOT your bare hands.

At Sumner Regional Medical Center, we'll be doing our part, too, to help prevent the flu from spreading, including:

Providing masks to all visitors and patients experiencing flu-like symptoms

Setting up stations throughout the facility stocked with tissues and alcohol-based hand sanitizers

Encouraging all patients, staff and visitors to get their flu shot

Providing educational materials to all visitors about everyday preventative actions

If needed, limiting visitation hours to help limit the spread of infection

Flu Treatment

Prescription antiviral drugs can help reduce the time you're sick if the virus is caught early enough. If you or a loved one begins to notice symptoms including coughing, sore throat, fever or upper respiratory symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor right away.

Stay home (or keep your child home) for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone, except to seek medical care or for other necessities.

If you have any questions or concerns about this year’s flu season, call 1-800-424-DOCS.